Discover the Dordogne Valley with this 5-day slow travel itinerary. Explore medieval towns, prehistoric caves, and scenic rivers while savoring local cuisine. Perfect for a relaxing getaway in France!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sarlat-la-Canéda
What to Do:
- Arrive at Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (EGC) or Brive-Souillac Airport (BVE). These are the most convenient airports for the Dordogne Valley.
- Check in to your accommodation in Sarlat-la-Canéda, a beautifully preserved medieval town.
- Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Sarlat, visiting the Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral and the vibrant Place de la Liberté.
- Enjoy an evening meal at Le Présidial, known for its refined take on local cuisine.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hôtel de la Madeleine (€180–€250/night).
- Mid-Range: La Villa des Consuls (€100–€150/night).
Cost for the Day:
- Accommodation: €100–€250.
- Meals: €50–€100.
- Optional private walking tour: €60–€100.
Travel Tip:
If you’re flying in, hire a driver for transfers or rent a car (€50–€80/day) for convenience.
Day 2: Prehistoric Wonders of the Vézère Valley
What to Do:
- Visit the Lascaux IV Cave in Montignac to marvel at prehistoric cave art. Book tickets in advance (€20 per adult).
- Stop by La Roque Saint-Christophe, a troglodyte site with cliffside dwellings.
- Take a leisurely lunch in Montignac at Le Flamboyant, known for its regional dishes.
- Spend the afternoon kayaking on the Vézère River (rentals: €25–€35 per person).
Where to Stay:
Return to your accommodation in Sarlat or choose a boutique stay in Montignac for closer proximity to the caves.
Cost for the Day:
- Tours and activities: €50–€100.
- Meals: €40–€70.
Travel Tip:
Consider hiring a guide fluent in English and French (€200–€300/day) for deeper insights into the region’s history.
Day 3: Castles and Culinary Experiences
What to Do:
- Start your day with a visit to Château de Beynac, a dramatic fortress with stunning views of the Dordogne River (€10 per adult).
- Explore the charming riverside village of La Roque-Gageac, where you can take a gabare boat tour (€15 per adult) along the Dordogne River.
- Enjoy lunch at La Belle Étoile, a restaurant with riverfront views and exquisite French cuisine.
- Spend the afternoon at Château des Milandes, once home to Josephine Baker.
Where to Stay:
Stay in Domaine de Monrecour near Beynac (€150–€200/night).
Cost for the Day:
- Entry fees and tours: €40–€70.
- Meals: €50–€100.
Travel Tip:
Hiring a driver for the day (€150–€250) ensures stress-free travel between these scenic spots.
Day 4: Market Day and River Relaxation
What to Do:
- Spend your morning at the Sarlat Market (Wednesdays and Saturdays), picking up local specialties like foie gras, truffles, and walnut products.
- Visit Les Jardins de Marqueyssac, beautiful cliffside gardens with walking trails and panoramic views (€10 per adult).
- Take an afternoon to relax by the Dordogne River, with options for a picnic or a paddleboarding session (€20–€30 per rental).
- End the day with dinner at Le Bistro de l’Octroi, offering a cozy atmosphere and local flavors.
Where to Stay:
Stay near the river in Le Manoir de Malagorse, a serene countryside retreat (€180–€250/night).
Cost for the Day:
- Activities and tours: €40–€70.
- Meals and market purchases: €50–€100.
Travel Tip:
If you don’t speak French, consider using a translation app like Google Translate or hiring a bilingual guide for smoother communication.
Day 5: Rocamadour and Farewell
What to Do:
- Drive or hire a driver to Rocamadour, a pilgrimage site perched on a cliff. Visit the Sanctuary of Rocamadour and enjoy the breathtaking views.
- Have lunch at Auberge du Coustalou, which serves authentic Quercy cuisine.
- Stop by the Monkey Forest or Eagles’ Rock Park nearby for a unique wildlife experience.
Where to Stay (Optional):
If you’re extending your trip, consider a night at Relais Amadourien (€100–€150).
Cost for the Day:
- Activities: €20–€50.
- Meals: €40–€70.
- Driver (if needed): €150–€200.
Travel Tip:
Plan your return to Bergerac or Brive airports for departure. Ensure your rental car or driver is arranged in advance.
Best Time to Travel to the Dordogne Valley
- Spring (April–June): Mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds.
- Fall (September–October): Harvest season with beautiful foliage and culinary events.
Additional Travel Tips:
- Travel Insurance: Always invest in travel insurance to cover unexpected delays or cancellations (€50–€100 for a week).
- Private Tours: Many private guides offer customizable tours in English (€250–€400/day).
- Language: While English is spoken in tourist areas, a basic knowledge of French or a translation app is helpful.
Estimated Cost for the Trip (Per Person):
- Accommodation: €500–€1,200 (for 5 nights).
- Meals: €250–€400.
- Activities and Tours: €150–€300.
- Transport (rental car or driver): €250–€600.
- Total: €1,150–€2,500.
Please note that the different accommodations listed in this itinerary are simply suggestions, offering a variety of experiences to suit different preferences. If you’d prefer not to switch hotels, you can choose one central location and use it as your base for the entire trip. This flexibility ensures your journey is as comfortable and convenient as possible! For recommended tours, check here.
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